In the fourth century, a miracle worker set up his home inside a fairy chimney that is now a monastery surrounded by dreamlike terrain and a vineyard.
Pasabag is a wonderland of fairy chimneys that sprout like enormous mushrooms from the middle of a vineyard. The exquisite rock formations are reason enough to visit this unusual part of the world that resembles Mars, but its intriguing history and vineyard complement the visual experience. Take a guided tour of the dreamlike world and learn about a miracle worker who took refuge inside a fairy chimney.
St. Simeon performed wonders in the fourth century before he became a hermit and lived inside a fairy chimney to avoid attention. Explore his former home, which is now a monastery inside an earth pyramid. Clamber inside the natural wonder and make your way to the top. Picture St. Simeon’s daily life in his hermitage and enjoy the panoramic view of Pasabag’s rock formations and vineyard.
The area around Pasabag has many elevated viewpoints. Follow the main footpath up to a cliff for stunning views. Capture photos of the diverse terrain beneath you. The area is particularly beautiful during the rising and setting of the sun, when shadows and warm colours are most prominent.
Go to the souvenir shop in the valley where you can haggle with vendors over memorabilia relating to the rock formations. You can also find merchants who sell refreshments and snacks. Sip mulled wine or fruit juice at a café after spending hours following the various paths and climbing steps attached to the rock formations.
The name of the region translates as General’s Vineyard, in reference to the grapes that grow around the rocks. It is also known as Monks Valley, as a tribute to the Christian friars who took refuge in the Cappadocia district many centuries ago.
Pasabag is located about 3 miles (4.8 kilometres) north of Göreme on the road leading to Zelve. It is a popular stop on bus tours of Cappadocia. You’ll find many places to park for free if you choose to drive. Entrance is also free of charge.
